Ignacio Fernandez Llorente - Player/Umpire

Umpire / Player

Many times the polo players on the field consider that they have certain rights, such as: That the umpire should explain and discuss their decisions. A player through screams and gestures demonstrate that they have disrespectful attitudes towards the umpires, they simulate fouls by changing lines or claiming fouls that are clearly nonexistent, giving indications to the umpires at all times, or giving their opinion of each of the umpires decisions, players who try to show that the umpire does not understand anything.

All those players should have to remember that they are playing polo, and not soccer.

The rules of polo have small variations, but they are applied practically the same throughout the world. I copy what the Argentine polo regulations say: "The task of the umpire is a task of responsibility that deserves respect for this person and their decisions, even if he could believe it wrong in any of them."

Playing polo is a pleasure, but it will cease to be when there are continuous fouls or discussions that disturb and distort the atmosphere of cordiality that must reign among those who practice and enjoy polo. No player may claim an infraction to the umpire or require explanations about the incidents of the game, or expect explanation of the decisions taken in the exercise of their roles. This does not inhibit captains to discuss other issues of the game with the umpires.

The words "harmful conduct to the game", include not only dangerous moves, but also disobedience of players and offensive or disrespectful attitudes towards the umpires. The behaviour of the players on the field of play is very clear. It is very clear what is right and what is wrong. It is up to you (umpire, player, spectator, commentator, journalist, fan, etc.) to make polo look like soccer or not.